Dutchman Zeegelaar fills the gap for Watford

London (AFP) – Dutch defender Marvin Zeegelaar signed for Premier League side Watford on Thursday from Sporting Lisbon and resolved a problem for manager Marco Silva.

The 27-year-old — who had been at Sporting Lisbon for just a season — signed a four year contract with the Hornets for an undisclosed fee.

Silva had been searching for a left-back as Jose Holebas’ ill discipline caught up with him again when the 33-year-old Greek international was sent off in their League Cup loss to Bristol City last week.

Silva’s first target Kieran Gibbs opted to leave Arsenal for West Brom instead but the Portuguese handler returned to one of his former clubs to secure Zeegelaar — who has played in England before for Blackpool albeit briefly on loan — on the final day of the transfer window.

“Watford FC is delighted to confirm the signing of defender Marvin Zeegelaar from Sporting Lisbon on a four-year deal,” a statement on the club’s website read.

“The left-back made 37 appearances for the 18-time Portuguese champions during 2016-17, including five in the UEFA Champions League.

“The Dutchman, who came through the ranks at Ajax Amsterdam, will wear the number 22 shirt for the Hornets.”